1. Gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need:
- A new set of brake pads
- A C-clamp or brake pad spreader
- A ratchet and socket set
- A pry bar
- A wire brush
- Brake cleaner
- Safety glasses
2. Prepare the vehicle. Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Engage the parking brake. If possible, position the vehicle in an area where you can easily access the front wheels and remove them.
3. Remove the wheels. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels using the ratchet and socket set. Then, use the pry bar to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels.
4. Remove the brake caliper. Locate the brake caliper, which is the large metal component that houses the brake pads. There are two bolts that hold the brake caliper in place. Remove these bolts using the ratchet and socket set. Then, carefully lift the brake caliper off the rotor and set it aside.
5. Remove the old brake pads. The old brake pads are held in place by two metal clips. Use the pry bar to carefully pry the clips out of place and remove the brake pads. Be careful not to damage the rotor.
6. Clean the brake caliper and rotor. Use the wire brush to clean the brake caliper and rotor. Remove any dirt, debris, or old brake material. Then, spray the brake caliper and rotor with brake cleaner to remove any remaining contaminants.
7. Install the new brake pads. Place the new brake pads into the brake caliper. Make sure that the pads are seated properly and that the metal clips are in place.
8. Reinstall the brake caliper. Carefully lift the brake caliper back over the rotor and secure it with the two bolts that were removed earlier. Tighten the bolts securely using the ratchet and socket set.
9. Reinstall the wheels. Put the wheels back on and secure them with the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts securely using the ratchet and socket set.
10. Test the brakes. Once the wheels are installed, test the brakes by applying pressure to the brake pedal. The brakes should feel firm and responsive.
11. Clean up. Clean up any remaining brake cleaner or debris from the work area.
The front brake pads on your 1998 Toyota Tacoma have now been successfully replaced.
